Intracardiac device to correct mitral regurgitation

ABSTRACT

A device structured to suppress mitral regurgitation by restricting prolapse of a mitral valve leaflet and including a base correspondingly dimensioned to the mitral valve and including a central portion, structured to allow blood flow there through and a peripheral portion or ring connected to the central portion in substantially surrounding relation thereto. An operative position of the base includes the central portion disposed in overlying, movement restricting relation to at least one of the valve leaflets and the ring concurrently anchored adjacent or directly to the native annulus of the mitral valve. The physical characteristics of the base facilitate its movement with and conformance to the mitral valve during diastole and systole cycles of the heart.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/656,006, filed on Mar. 12, 2015, which claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) to a provisional patentapplication having Ser. No. 62/089,339 and a filing date of Dec. 9,2014, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a device, for use in the field of minimallyinvasive surgery or invasive cardiology, capable of introduction througha minimal incision, a port-access in the wall of the left atrium or viaa trans-septal, catheter-based, approach to the mitral valve from aperipheral vein such as the femoral or jugular. The device is disposedthat and structured to prevent a flail mitral leaflet from flipping backinto the left atrium (“prolapsing”) in order to remodel the shape andmovement of the mitral structures in such a way to improve thecoaptation of the mitral leaflets and hence decrease or suppress themitral regurgitation flow.

Description of the Related Art

The mitral valve is located between the left atrium (LA) and the leftventricle (LV). It is due to open fully to not oppose resistance to theblood stream progressing from the LA to the LV during the diastole (i.e.the ventricular relaxation phase) and to close fully during the systole(the ventricular ejection phase) so as to prevent the blood from flowingback into the left atrium and to the pulmonary venous circulation. Therole of the mitral valve is therefore to ensure antegrade progression ofthe blood through the left cardiac chambers. It works in synchrony withthe three other heart valves that are ensuring the same function betweenthe right atrium (RA) and the right ventricle (RV) i.e. the tricuspidvalve, between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery (PA) i.e.the pulmonic valve and downstream to the mitral valve, between the leftventricle and the aorta i.e. the aortic valve at the junction betweenthe left ventricle and the aorta, the latter to opening during theventricular systoles and closing during diastole. From a mechanicalstandpoint the mitral valve has to face high gradients of pressureduring the ventricular contraction to hold up against a pressure head ofabout 100 mm of mercury (Hg) or more. It is recognized that the peakpressure in the LV is generally equal to or greater than 110 mmHg andthe one in the atrium around 10 mmHg. This strain is absorbed mostly bythe coaptation of the two mitral leaflets when closed, comprising thevalve leaflets closing with each other with a contact height around 10mm over the entire length of the mitral coaptation line. The coaptationof the leaflets depends on the adequate anatomy (integrity of thestructures) and adequate functioning of 5 components, which are 1. themitral annulus, 2. the anterior and posterior leaflets, 3. the mitralchordae, 4. the papillary muscles (PPM) and 5. the ventricular wallsthemselves.

Any congenital malformation or acquired lesion of one or more of thesecomponents can lead to a mitral insufficiency, also known and referredto as mitral regurgitation (MR). As commonly used, mitral insufficiencyand/or mitral regurgitation is a result of the mitral valve nothermetically closing during ventricular contraction. As a result, avariable amount of blood leaks back into the LA. This situationcorrelates with a poor outcome for the patient, since it increases theworkload to the heart, as well as it increases the volumes of the leftatrial and ventricular chambers.

Furthermore, the existence of severe mitral regurgitation andventricular dilatation generate a vicious cycle in which MR begets moreMR. Indeed when the ventricle increases in size the distance between thepapillary muscles increases, tethering the mitral chordae and impedingtheir full motion up to the plane of the annulus. The native annulus ofthe mitral valve may also increase. This patho-physiological continuumleads to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, atrial fibrillation andultimately death. The treatment of MR includes the administration ofpharmacological drugs. However in most cases the regurgitation treatedeither by surgical repair or replacement of the valve. In some selectedcases, an emerging percutaneous technology is used. However, thisprocedure is still under evaluation and involves the Mitraclip® or otheremerging technologies that are currently under development.

Although there is a considerable trend to fix the MR as early aspossible in its natural course, the indication and timing of theintervention rely also on the etiology of the condition, as well as onthe functional anatomy and structural damage to the valve and theventricle. One particular case of mitral regurgitation is referred to asstructural mitral regurgitation (SMR). This includes a structuraldeterioration of the mitral valve and is usually the consequence ofBarlow's disease or of fibro-elastic degeneration (FED). This conditionis extremely prevalent and can be found, according to different studies,in about 2-4% of the adult population.

Repairing structural mitral insufficiency poses particular problems andchallenges that have been approached in different ways. Such include asurgical approach through various incisions in the patients' chest usingcardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on the arrested heart. Less frequently theapproach involves, percutaneously using an endovascular, catheter thatrequires, a trans-septal puncture. The trans-septal puncture involvesdrilling a hole in the inter-atrial septum in order to reach the leftatrial chamber of the heart from the punctured vein. This manoeuverrequires sophisticated infrastructures and highly trained teams and canbe applied only in carefully selected, hence limited, subcategories ofpatients.

Surgery is currently regarded as the golden standard of treatment torepair the mitral valve and is therefore performed in the vast majorityof the cases. When the valve is repaired technical failure is not a rareevent as up to 20% of the patients who undergo repair experiencerecurrence of severe mitral regurgitation during the firstpost-operative year. In a significant number of cases of SMR, generallyless than 50%, the leaking valve is replaced rather than repaired. Thisoccurs for numerous reasons including technical difficulties andinsufficient physician's experience/caseload. Replacement represents aloss of chances for the patient as compared to repair with an estimatedincrease in the mortality risk around 15% at five years after theoperation for SMR. In any case open heart surgery remains a major acuteinsult to patients' physiology with risks of complications arisingmainly from three maneuvers: sternal division (“sternotomy”), CPB andaortic clamping/manipulations. Generally such an operation correspondsin terms of bodily inflammatory response to that of a third degree burnof 25% of the body surface area.

Therefore, an alternative solution allowing an easier, less invasive,more reproducible, and possibly safer and more durable reduction ordisappearance of the mitral regurgitation is needed to overcome theproblems as generally set forth above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention is directed to the use of an intra-cardiac pre-shapeddevice, where in one or more preferred embodiments comprise a gridtailored or more specifically corresponding in dimension andconfiguration to patient's mitral valve anatomy. As such, theintracardiac device of the present invention includes a base having adimension and configuration which corresponds to that of the nativeannulus and leaflets of the mitral valve.

More specifically, the device of the present invention comprises a baseincluding a peripheral portion connected in at least partiallysurrounding relation to a central portion. As indicated, the base and orits components may be pre-formed and structured prior to its applicationto correspond in both dimension and configuration to the mitral valveincluding the native annulus thereof. Such preoperative structuring maybe in accord with a three-dimensional (3-D) print of the patient'smitral valve. As such, the patient's mitral valve, using any of aplurality of appropriate imaging techniques, may be “reconstructed” inthree dimensions, in order to assure an accurate, customizeddimensioning and configuring of the base. Such imaging techniques areknown in the medical profession and related prior art and may include,but are not limited to, a CT scan, MRI, 3D echo imaging, etc.

The preoperative dimensioning and configuring of the base of the devicefacilitates its securement in an appropriate operative position relativeto the mitral valve being treated. As set forth above, the basecomprises a peripheral portion and a central portion secured to theperipheral portion and being surrounded thereby. The central portioncomprises a grid or open mesh configuration or other appropriatestructure which facilitates the flow of blood through the centralportion. Moreover, the grid or open mesh configuration comprises aplurality of openings which are collectively disposed, dimensioned andconfigured to facilitate the aforementioned normal blood flow therethrough, from the left atrium to the left ventricle. Such facilitatedblood flow is necessary due to the operative positioning of the base inan overlying relation to the mitral valve substantially or at leastpartially on the interior of the left atrium. As a result, during thenormal functioning of the heart, blood will flow through the grid oropen mesh of the central portion, through the open orifice of the mitralvalve and into the left ventricle, when the heart is in diastole.

In addition, the central portion including the grid or open meshconfiguration will also be disposed in overlying, movement restrictingrelation to at least one of the leaflets of the mitral valve, when thebase is in the aforementioned operative position. Therefore at least apart of the central portion will be disposed in engaging relation withat least one of the valve leaflets preferably, but not necessarilyexclusively, at an area in overlying alignment with the regurgitatingorifice. As used herein, the “regurgitating orifice” is intended todescribe the opening between the leaflets of the mitral valve throughwhich blood flows from the left ventricle back into the left atriumduring diastole. As explained in greater detail hereinafter, the grid oropen mesh configuration may include the aforementioned plurality ofopenings extending over a predetermined part of the central portion orat least a majority of the central portion. In at least one embodiment,substantially the entirety of the central portion is comprised of theplurality of openings which facilitate the aforementioned blood flow,during an open orientation of the mitral valve, into the left ventricle.As will be explained in greater detail hereinafter, the open meshconstruction of the central portion will still provide sufficientresistance to at least one of the leaflets to restrict its movement backinto the left atrium. Accordingly, it is emphasized, that the intendedstructural and operative features of the base, being correspondinglydimensioned and configured with mitral valve being treated, facilitatesboth blood flow through the mitral valve as well as the restriction ofmovement or prolapse of at least one valve leaflet. As a result, thedevice of the present invention, when operatively positioned relative tothe mitral valve will restrict or at least decrease the propensity formitral regurgitation.

As indicated, the base also comprises a peripheral portion whichpreferably includes an annular configuration and/or ring structure. Thering structure is anchored adjacent to the native annulus of the mitralvalve and/or directly thereto such that the grid or open mesh of thecentral portion is disposed in overlying relation to the valve leafletsof the mitral valve. Further, the material from which the peripheralportion or ring of the base is formed may be accurately described asbeing flexible and “semi-rigid”. As used with regard to the physicalcharacteristics of the ring, the term semi-rigid is meant to include amaterial having sufficient flexibility facilitate movement of the ringwith the native annulus between the normal open and closed orientationsof the mitral valve. At the same time, the semi-rigid material as wellas the configuration of the stabilizing ring preferably includessufficient rigidity to restrict or limit an abnormal or undesireddilation or expansion of the native annulus, when the ring is anchoredto and/or adjacent the native annulus, while the base is in theoperative position. As a result of limiting the dilation or expansion ofthe native annulus, the size of the mitral orifice will also be limitedso as to not expand or dilate beyond a normal size.

An additional structural feature of the intracardiac device includes thering having a length which is equal to at least a majority andpreferably substantially the entirety of the circumference of the nativeannulus. As such, at least a majority or substantially the entire lengthof the ring is anchored directly or adjacently along at least a majorityor preferably the entirety of the circumference of the native annulus.Also, in order to provide more accurate fitting or attachment of thering relative to the native annulus, the ring may not have a continuousconfiguration. More specifically, the ring may include free oppositeends which when in an operative position, are disposed in adjacent butspaced relation to one another.

Structural and operative features of the grid or open mesh of thecentral portion may include it being formed of a material havingsufficient flexibility to move with the mitral valve as it is disposedbetween the open and closed orientations. However, the central portionshould also include sufficient rigidity, strength, tenacity, etc. torestrict movement of at least one of the valve leaflets and preventprolapse thereof into the left atrium as the mitral valve assumes aclosed or orientation during systole. To this end, the central portion,including the open mesh grid may have a substantially “bowed”, at leastpartially “domed” or similar, outwardly projecting configuration. Inmore specific terms, such a preferred bowed or domed configuration ofthe central portion facilitates it at least partially entering theorifice of the mitral valve at least when the mitral valve is in an openorientation. However, upon a closing of the mitral valve the bowedconfiguration may at least minimally retract or otherwise be reorientedsuch that it remains in engaging and/or movement restricting relation toat least one leaflet of the mitral valve at least during systole inorder to prevent the aforementioned prolapse thereof.

Introduction of the device may be accomplished by an introductorycatheter passing through the left atrial wall. As at least partiallyindicated above, the flexibility of both the peripheral portion or ringand the central portion of the base is such as to allow it to beinitially disposed in a folded, crimped or other reduced volumeorientation. When so oriented within the interior, the base will bedisposed within the interior of the introductory catheter to bedelivered to the interior of the left atrium. In addition, an additionalcatheter or positioning instrument may also be disposed on the interiorof the introductory catheter in associated relation with the base. Oncethe introductory catheter is disposed within the interior the leftatrium, the positioning instrument forces the device out through anaccess opening of the introductory catheter. Further, the flexibleand/or semi-rigid structuring of the material of the device may alsoinclude a sufficient “inherent bias”. As such the base willautomatically expand into its intended configuration for anchoringand/or placement in the operative position relative to the mitral valve.

As indicated, the central portion is secured to the peripheral portionring and is surrounded thereby. In turn, when applied in its operativeposition, the ring is anchored adjacent to or indirect attachment withthe natural annulus of the mitral valve. Such anchoring may occurthrough appropriate suturing or through the utilization of a pluralityof anchoring hooks or other appropriate connectors which will securelyconnect and maintain the peripheral portion ring in the operativeposition relative to the native annulus.

Additional features relating primarily, but not exclusively to theapplication of the base to the mitral valve may include a separateattachment or anchoring of both the peripheral portion ring and thecentral portion. More specifically, the central portion ring can beinitially applied into the interior of the left atrium and anchored inits intended location relative to the natural annulus. Thereafter, thecentral portion may be entered into the left atrium and connected aboutits periphery to the peripheral portion ring in a secure and reliablemanner. In contrast to the above, the central portion and the peripheralportion ring may be connected to one another pre-operatively and priorto introduction into the left atrium.

Therefore, different structural lesions can affect the anatomy of themitral valve leading to mitral regurgitation. The device of the presentinvention, as described herein is primarily targeted at fixing “flail”leaflets i.e. leaflets that are “prolapsed” because of chordal ruptureand/or extension also overcome and/or restrict mitral regurgitation fromother etiologies. More, technically the device of the present inventioncorresponds to a type II according to Carpentier's classification. It isan extremely frequent phenomenon.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detaileddescription are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention,reference should be had to the following detailed description taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an open orientation of themitral valve orifice.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a closed orientation of themitral valve orifice.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view in schematic form of a leaflet of themitral valve in prolapse further demonstrating mitral regurgitation.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view in schematic form of the device of theembodiment the device in an operative position overlying the leaflets ofthe mitral valve.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view in schematic form of normal blood flow fromthe left atrium through the mitral valve, where in the device of theembodiment of FIGS. 1 and 4 are in an operative position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view in schematic form of the peripheral portionof the base of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5 secured in an operativeposition to the native annulus of the mitral valve.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view in schematic form of the device of theembodiment of FIGS. 1-4 in a position for attachment in to the mitralvalve using a plurality of connectors.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the device of FIGS. 1-7 disposed in anoperative position relative to the mitral valve leaflets when in aclosed orientation.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the device of FIGS. 1-7 disposed in anoperative position relative to the mitral valve orifice, when in an openorientation.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view in schematic form of one method and/orprocedure for inserting the device of the present invention into theleft atrium in preparation for attachment to the mitral valve in anoperative position.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view in schematic form of the embodiment ofFIG. 10 wherein the device has exited an introductory catheter and isdisposed in position for attachment to the mitral valve.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view in exploded form of another preferredembodiment of the present invention comprising an assembly structured torestrict regurgitation of a mitral valve.

FIG. 13 is a perspective schematic view representing a stabilizing ringassociated with the additional preferred embodiment of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view in schematic form of an assembledstabilizing ring and grid, of the additional preferred embodiment ofFIGS. 12-13, not yet independently positioned in an operativeorientation relative to the mitral valve.

FIG. 15 is a detail view in partial cutaway of one preferred embodimentof an interconnection between the stabilizing ring and grid structure asrepresented in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16A is a schematic view in partial cutaway of a positioninginstrument structured to dispose at least the stabilizing ring, of theembodiment of FIG. 12, in an operative orientation relative to themitral valve.

FIG. 16B is a schematic view in partial cutaway of the positioninginstrument of FIG. 16A in a non-inflated state and having thestabilizing ring of the embodiment of FIG. 12 operatively positionedthereon.

FIG. 16C is a schematic plan view of the positioning instrument of theembodiment of FIGS. 16A-16B be in a fully inflated state with thestabilizing ring disposed in an operative position thereon.

FIG. 17A-17C are transverse schematic sectional views of an insertion ofthe inflated positioning instrument, of the embodiments of FIGS. 16A-16Cinserted in a mitral orifice of the mitral valve and being successivelyoriented during inflation.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the positioning instrument in an inflatedstate including a stabilizing ring disposed thereon in an operativeposition prior to forced disposition of the stabilizing ring in anoperative orientation attached to the natural annulus of the mitralvalve.

FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of the stabilizing ring beingdisposed in an operative orientation relative to the mitral valve by thepositioning instrument.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As represented in the accompanying FIGS. 1-11, the present invention isdirected to an intracardiac device, generally indicated as 10, which isstructured to restrict prolapse of a mitral valve leaflet, as at 104,and by doing so restrict or diminish mitral valve regurgitation, asschematically represented in FIG. 3. More specifically, the base 12includes an outer peripheral portion 14 having a substantially annularconfiguration. As such the peripheral portion 14 may include a ringstructure. As also represented the central portion 16 is connected alongits outer circumference to the peripheral portion 14 so as to besubstantially or at least partially surrounded thereby, as clearlyrepresented in the Figures. As also represented, the peripheral portionring may not be continuous. More specifically, in order to facilitatethe disposition of the ring 14 in the preferred operative position, theopposite ends may be disposed in adjacent but spaced relation to oneanother when in the operative position, relative to the natural annulus126.

Further, the central portion 16 of the base 12 comprises a gridconstruction or configuration which is more specifically defined as anopen mesh construction or configuration. As such, the grid or open meshof the central portion 16 comprises a plurality of openingscooperatively disposed, dimensioned and configured to facilitate thepassage of fluid, specifically including blood, there through, as willbe explained in greater detail hereinafter with primary reference toFIG. 5.

While the general configuration of the peripheral ring portion 14 isrepresented in the Figures, the base 12 and its components may be formedand/or structured preoperatively so as to correspond in both dimensionand configuration to the mitral valve 100, including the native annulus102 thereof, to which it is applied. Such preoperative structuring maybe in accord with a three-dimensional (3-D) replica of the patient'smitral valve 100. As such, required dimensions and/or configuration ofthe patient's mitral valve 100 may be determined using a variety ofscanning techniques known in the medical profession and related arts.Moreover, the generally customized dimensioning and configuration of thebase 12 of the device 10 facilitate its securement in an intendedoperative position relative to the mitral valve 100 being treated.

In the normal functioning of the heart, the mitral valve 100 willrepetitively move between an open orientation (diastole), as representedin FIG. 1, and a closed orientation (systole), as represented in FIG. 2.As such, when in a closed orientation the valve leaflets 104 and 106close along a coaptation line 108. In contrast, when in an openorientation the natural mitral orifice 110 of the mitral valve 100 isopen to facilitate blood flow there through from the left atrium to theleft ventricle during diastole of the heart. Accordingly, the pluralityof openings of the grid or open mesh which at least partially define thecentral portion 16 may extend across substantially the entirety thereofor at least along a major portion thereof. However, the collectivedisposition of the plurality of openings must be such as to assureadequate blood flow through the mitral valve 100 from the left atrium tothe left ventricle. It is also noted that certain segments or parts ofthe open mesh of the central portion 16 may be structured to include agreater density. Such increased density may be defined by the pluralityof openings in the dense segment greater in number and more closelypositioned. This increased density may further facilitate the movementrestricting engagement or relation of the central portion 16 relative toone or more of the valve leaflets 104 or 106.

As indicated and with reference to FIGS. 3-5, the device 10, includingthe base 12, is disposed in an operative position so as to restrictmovement of at least one of the valve leaflets 104 and 106. Inrestricting movement or prolapse of a corresponding leaflet, mitralregurgitation, as schematically represented FIG. 3, may be eliminated orreduced. As represented a leaflet 104 of the mitral valve 100 is in astate of prolapse as it moves back into the left atrium. As a result,mitral regurgitation occurs allowing a flow of blood 120 back into theleft atrium through a regurgitation orifice 122. Therefore, thepreferred operative position of the base 12 is schematically representedin FIGS. 4 and 6. As such, the peripheral portion or ring 14 is securedadjacent or directly to the natural annulus 126 of the mitral valve 100.In such an operative position the central portion 16, including the gridor open mesh, is disposed in overlying relation to one or both of themitral valve leaflets 104 and 106. Further, the base 12 will remainconnected in its operative position when the mitral valve 100 is in theclosed position of FIG. 4 as well as the open position of FIG. 5. Theoverlying disposition and movement restricting engagement of the openmesh of the central portion 16 will also remain in movement restrictingengagement with the one or more valve leaflets 104 and 106 during boththe closed an open orientation of the mitral valve 100. As schematicallydemonstrated in FIG. 5, when in the open orientation (also see FIG. 1),the plurality of openings which at least partially define the centralportion 16 facilitates blood flow generally indicated as 130 from theleft atrium, through the open mesh and/or grid of the central portion 16and through the natural mitral orifice 110 of the mitral valve 100.

As schematically represented in FIGS. 6 and 7, attachment of theperipheral portion or ring 14 adjacent or directly to the naturalannulus 126 may be accomplished by suturing as at 150. In thealternative, a plurality of hook like connectors or other appropriatelystructured connectors or attachment structures 152 may be affixed to theperipheral portion 14 in spaced relation to one another. As applied, theplurality of connectors will be secured directly to the natural annulus126 or in a sufficiently adjacent location to dispose the peripheralportion 14 in the manner demonstrated in FIGS. 7 and 8. Therefore, whenproperly attached to the mitral valve 100 in the operative position, thebase 12 will have both sufficient flexibility and rigidity to move withthe mitral valve 100, including the natural annulus 126, between theopen and closed orientations as represented in FIGS. 1 and 2.

In more specific terms, the material from which the ring 14 is formedmay be accurately described as being flexible and “semi-rigid”. As usedherein, this term with specific regard to the peripheral portion ring 14is meant to include a material having both a degree of flexibility and adegree of rigidity. Moreover, the material of the peripheral portionring 14 is sufficiently flexible to facilitate movement of the ring 14with the native annulus 126 between the open and closed orientations ofthe mitral orifice 110 of the mitral valve 100, as it passes between thediastole and systole phases of the heart cycle. At the same time, thesemi-rigid material of the stabilizing ring 12 preferably includes asufficient rigidity to restrict or limit a predetermined and/or abnormaldilation or expansion of the native annulus 126 and the mitral orifice110, upon movement of the natural orifice 110 into the open orientationduring diastole, when the ring 14 is anchored to or adjacent the nativeannulus 126, as represented throughout the FIGS. 1-11.

In turn, limiting or preventing the abnormal expansion of the naturalannulus 126 prevents an abnormal dilation or expansion of the mitralorifice 110 during the diastole phase of the heart cycle. It isrecognized that abnormal or unusual expansion, dilation, etc. of themitral orifice 126 may result in prolapse of one or more of the mitralvalve leaflets. Accordingly, in situations where weaker dictation of themitral valve 100 is an occurrence, restricting abnormal expansion of thenatural annulus 126 will in turn restrict and abnormal enlargement,dilation or expansion of the mitral orifice 110.

For purposes of clarity, during the diastole phase, the natural orificearea is normally 7.1 (plus or minus) 1.3 cm². Accordingly thestabilizing ring 14 is structured through its predetermined dimensionand configuration, corresponding to the natural annulus 126, as well asthe flexible, semi-rigid material from which it is formed, to restrictdilation or expansion of the natural annulus and accordingly restrictdilation or expansion of the natural orifice 110 beyond the 7.1+1.3 cm²or 8.4 cm² maximum normal size.

Somewhat similarly, the structural and operative features of the grid oropen mesh of this central portion 16 includes a sufficient amount ofrigidity, strength and integrity to restrict movement of at least one ofthe valve leaflets 104 and 106. Such restricted movement prevents orreduces prolapse of the one or more leaflets 104 and 106 as the mitralvalve 100 assumes a closed orientation during systole. At the same time,the grid or open mesh of the central portion 16 should have sufficientflexibility to accommodate and move with the different orientations ofthe mitral valve 100 including the natural orifice 110 and the nativeannulus 126. Therefore, with primary reference to FIGS. 7-9, the grid oropen mesh of the central portion 16 may include a substantially “bowed”or “domed” configuration generally indicated as 16′. As such, the bowedconfiguration 16′ is disposed, dimensioned and configured to extendoutwardly from the left atrium and the ring 14 to which is attached andbe disposed in movement restricting engagement with one or both of theleaflets 104 and 106 of the mitral valve 100 when in the closedorientation of FIG. 7. Also, the substantially bowed or domedconfiguration 16′, as well as the flexibility of the central portion 16,will facilitate at least a partial insertion or passage of the bowedsegment 16′ from the left atrium through or into the natural orifice 110of the mitral valve 100 when the mitral valve 100 is in the openorientation (diastole) of FIG. 9.

With primary reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, introduction of the device 10may be by and introductory catheter 200 passing through a wall 400 ofthe left atrium 402. As generally indicated above, the flexibility andoverall structuring of the device 10 allows it to be folded or otherwisemanipulated into a reduced volume orientation of sufficiently reducedsize to be disposed and moved within the interior of the introductorycatheter 200. Also, a positioning instrument 300 may also be operativelydisposed within the interior of the introductory or positioninginstrument or catheter 200 in direct association with the device 10.Further manipulation of the positioning instrument 300 will cause thedevice 10 to pass through and out of an access opening 202 once theintroductory catheter 200 passes through the atrium wall 400 into theinterior of the left atrium 402. Accordingly, as represented in FIG. 12,additional manipulation of the positioning instrument 300 will result ina forced removal of the device 10 from the introductory catheter 200. Asalso indicated above, the flexibility and other physical characteristicsof the material from which the components of the base 12 are formed mayalso be such as to include an inherent bias. As a result, once thedevice 10 exits the access opening 202 it will assume its normalexpanded orientation, as represented. Once in the normal or expandedorientation the device 10 and base 12 will be disposed relative to themitral valve 100 for attachment thereto in the aforementioned operativeposition. For purposes of clarity, the FIG. 12 also represents themitral valve 100 having at least one leaflet 104 being disposed inprolapse as at 104′.

Additional features relating primarily, but not exclusively, to theinsertion and attachment of the base 12 to the mitral valve 100 mayinclude a separate attachment of the peripheral portion ring 14 and aseparate or subsequent attachment of the central portion 16. Incontrast, the central portion 16 and the peripheral portion ring 14 maybe connected to one another preoperatively and prior to disposition ofthe devise 10 into the introductory catheter 200, as described above.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is representedin FIGS. 12-19 and is directed to an assembly and method for restrictingregurgitation of a mitral valve 100. This preferred embodiment asrepresented in FIGS. 12-20 is similar in purpose and function butdistinguishable in structure and as well as the method of securing thecomponents of the assembly of the additional preferred embodiment, in anoperative orientation relative to the mitral valve 100.

With initial and primary reference to FIGS. 12-14, assembly of thisembodiment includes a stabilizing ring, generally indicated as 502including, in at least one preferred embodiment, a continuous, closedconfiguration. Further as with the embodiment of FIG. 7 the stabilizingring 502 includes an attachment structure comprising at least one butpreferably a plurality of connecting or attaching hooks 152 disposed andconfigured to penetrate into the natural annulus 126, thereby at leastpartially defining an operative orientation of the stabilizing ring 502.

As also represented in FIG. 12 the assembly of this embodiment comprisesa grid generally indicated as 504 having a central portion 506 and anouter peripheral portion 508. As also indicated the central portion 506includes an outwardly bowed section or portion which, as explained ingreater detail hereinafter, will be disposed in movement restrictingrelation to one or both of the mitral valve leaflets, at least duringthe systole phase of the heart cycle, as described above in theembodiment of FIGS. 1-11 and in particular as represented in FIG. 4-7.

It is further emphasized that one structural and operative differencebetween the embodiment of FIGS. 12-20 and that represented in FIGS. 1-11is the initial and original separation of the stabilizing ring 502 fromthe grid 504 thereby providing additional versatility to the assembly ofthis embodiment. Such independent structuring and independent operativeorientation facilitates a method and procedure of disposing both thestabilizing ring 502 and the grid 504 in an intended operativeorientation relative to the mitral valve 100.

For purposes of clarity, FIG. 14 represents an assembled and/orinterconnected stabilizing ring 502 with the grid 504 prior todisposition of the stabilizing ring 502 being initially connected to thenatural annulus 126 and the subsequent connection of the grid 504 beingindependently connected to the ring 502, so as to be interconnected tothe mitral valve 100. However, it is again emphasized that the method ofdefining the components of the assembly being disposed in the “operativeorientation” includes the stabilizing ring 502 being initially connectedto the natural annulus 126 in at least partially surrounding relation toa mitral orifice 110 and a subsequent introduction of the grid 504 tothe mitral valve 100 by being connected to the stabilizing ring 502.

Also for purposes of clarity, FIG. 15 is representative of onestructural embodiment facilitating the attachment of the outerperipheral portion 508 of the grid 504 to the ring 502. In thisembodiment the ring 502 may include an elongated channel 510 extendingalong an inner periphery of the ring 502. As such, the outer peripheralportion 508 of the grid 504 may be fitted therein to facilitate aconnection of the grid 504 in the intended operative orientation to thering 502 and interconnected to the natural annulus 126. It is emphasizedthat the interconnection between the ring 502 and the grid to 504 isprovided by example only. Other interconnecting structures andprocedures may be utilized to interconnect the grid 504 to the ring 502in the intended operative orientation, subsequent to the ring 502 beingconnected to the natural annulus 126 of the mitral valve 100.

It should also be noted that the grid 504 may have different structuralconfigurations wherein the central portion 506 has a liquid permeable,open mesh structure which may differ as made evident from a comparisonof the FIGS. 12 and 14. However common to each structural embodiment isthe central portion 506 having an outwardly bowed configuration. Also,with regard to the structural details of the stabilizing ring 502, oneembodiment is represented as having a continuous, close configuration.Further, the stabilizing ring 502 is structured to conform in dimensionand configuration to the natural annulus, specifically, but notexclusively when the natural annulus is in an open orientation(diastole).

It is recognized that the normal diameter of the mitral annulus is2.7-3.5 cm wherein the circumference is 8-9 cm. However microscopically,there is no clear evidence of a true annular configuration of the mitralannulus located anteriorly, where the mitral valve leaflet is contiguouswith the posterior aortic root. Therefore, the stabilizing ring 502 mayhave a closed, continuous configuration and still maintain its intendedoperative features in an efficient and effective manner. In contrast,another embodiment of the stabilizing ring 502 may have a substantiallynon-continuous configuration generally in the form of a C-shape orconfiguration. In the latter C-configuration the stabilizing ring 502may be connected along at least a majority or the entirety of thecircumference of the normal annulus. Further, the spacing between spacedapart free ends of the substantially C-configured ring 502 may bedisposed adjacent and/or aligned with the anterior of the naturalannulus, where the corresponding mitral valve leaflet is contiguous tothe posterior aortic root, as set forth above.

Further structural and operative features of the ring 502 includes thedimensioning and at least partial configuring thereof to correspond tothe natural annulus of the 126 such as when the natural annulus 126 isin an open orientation. Accordingly, the above noted dimensionalcharacteristics of the natural annulus 126 will be incorporated in thering 502. Moreover, and as set forth above regarding the structural andoperative characteristics of the stabilizing ring 12 of the embodimentof FIGS. 1-11, the stabilizing ring 502 is similarly structured. In morespecific terms, the ring 502 is formed from an at least partiallyflexible, semirigid material. As such the flexible, semi-rigid materialas well as the corresponding dimensions and configurations of the ring502, substantially corresponding to the natural annulus 126, facilitatesmovement of the ring 502 with the natural annulus 126 between open andclosed orientations during diastole and systole phases of the heartcycle. However, the indicated configuration as well as the notedstructural, material and dimensional characteristics of the ring 502,prevents an “abnormal” or excessive dilation or expansion of the naturalannulus 126, which in turn prevents or restricts an abnormal expansionor dilation of the mitral orifice 110, during the diastole phase of theheart. As a result, such “expansion restrictive limits” of the naturalannulus 126 and corresponding limits on the abnormal expansion ordilation of the mitral orifice 110, eliminates or significantlyrestricts the occurrence of prolapse of the leaflets and a resultingregurgitation of the mitral valve 100.

Again for purposes of clarity, during the diastole phase, thedimensional area of the natural orifice 110 is normally 7.1 (plus orminus) 1.3 cm². Accordingly the stabilizing ring 502 is structuredthrough its predetermined dimension and configuration corresponding tothe natural annulus 126, as well as the flexible, semi-rigid materialfrom which it is formed, to restrict dilation or expansion of thenatural annulus 126 and accordingly restrict dilation or expansion ofthe natural orifice 110 beyond the 7.1+1.3 cm² or 8.4 cm² maximum normalsize.

With primary reference to FIGS. 16A-16 C a positioning or introductoryinstrument is at least partially defined by a catheter 200′. However,the catheter 200′ differs from the introductory catheter 200 asrepresented in FIG. 11 at least to the extent of including an inflatablebladder or balloon generally indicated as 520. Inflation conduits orlines may be integrated in the catheter 200′ and be connected to aremote source of pressurized air, fluid, etc. Further, the inflatablebladder or balloon 520 includes a distal segment 522 and a proximalsegment 524. When in its inflated state, as represented in FIG. 16C thedistal segment 522 includes a lesser diameter or transverse dimensionthan that of the proximal segment 524. In addition a junction 526 servesto provide a demarcation as well as an interconnection between thedistal segment 522 and the proximal segment 524.

With reference to FIGS. 16B and 16C, the stabilizing ring 502 is placedin an “operative position” on the bladder 520 in alignment orimmediately adjacent to the junction 526. This operative position of thering 502, during an inflated state of the bladder 520 serves to disposethe ring 502 in a position to accomplish the operative orientation ofthe ring 502 in direct connection to the natural annulus 126 asexplained in greater detail hereinafter.

For purposes of clarity it is emphasized that the term “operativeposition” or its equivalent is meant to describe the position of thestabilizing ring 502 on the inflated bladder 520 at the junction 506. Assuch the stabilizing ring 502 is “operatively position” to assume its“operative orientation” in connection with the natural annulus 126.Therefore the term “operative position” is meant to describe theposition of the ring 502 on the inflated bladder as set forth above andclearly represented in FIG. 16C. The term “operative orientation” ismeant to describe the stabilizing ring 502 being connected directly tothe natural annulus 126. The term “operative orientation is also meantto include the grid 504 being connected directly to the ring 502 asdescribed above and schematically represented in FIGS. 12 and 15.

Further, the transverse dimension of the distal segment 522substantially corresponds to the size of the mitral orifice 110 when inan open orientation, such as during diastole. Therefore the transversedimension of the distal segment 522 is specifically determined to passthrough the mitral orifice 110 in engagement with the outer peripherythereof and may also be sized to at least minimally stretch or expandthe outer perimeter of the mitral orifice 110 so as to provide anaccurate connection of the ring 502 to the natural annulus 126 in the“operative orientation”. As indicated, the proximal section 524 is toolarge to pass through the mitral orifice 110 and, as represented inFIGS. 18 and 19, the stabilizing ring 502, being located at the junction526, is disposed in abutting engagement with the corresponding end ofthe proximal segment 524 of the bladder 520. Therefore when the distalsegment 522 is forced through the mitral orifice 110, the stabilizingring 502 will be forced into penetrating or other appropriate connectionwith the natural annulus 126. Such a forced connection will be theresult of the abutting engagement of the proximal segment 524, wheninflated, with the ring 502 concurrent to a force 527, schematicallyrepresented in FIG. 18, being exerted on the inflated bladder 520 andthe catheter 200′.

As represented in FIG. 17A-17C, the transverse configuration of thedistal segment 522 of the bladder 520 is represented as not beingcircular or around but rather substantially conforming to the overallconfiguration of the mitral orifice 110 and its inner perimeter 110′. Assuch, the distal segment 522 of the bladder 520 will effectively assumean automatic alignment and/or conformance as it is extended into themitral orifice 110. An automatic orientation is schematicallyrepresented by directional arrows 600. Further, such automaticorientation may be the result of manipulation of the catheter 200′ towhich the bladder 520 is attached.

FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of the mitral valve 100 in itsnatural environment within the left atrium 402. Further, the accurateand definitive placement of the distal segment 522 of the bladder 520being disposed within the natural orifice 110 is represented. To assureaccurate placement, a guide wire as at 604 may be secured or anchored tothe ventricular wall 606 in spaced relation to the aortic valve 608 andin alignment with a substantial center of the mitral orifice 110, asindicated. When so positioned, the bladder 520 forces the stabilizingring 502 into its intended “operative orientation” in connection withthe natural annulus, such as by penetration of the aforementionedattachment structures 152 into the annulus 126. When so positioned, thedistal segment 522 forces the leaflets 104 and 106 into an open orspread orientation.

Therefore, the aforementioned “operative orientation” comprises and maybe at least partially defined by the stabilizing ring 502 beingconnected directly to the natural annulus 126 so as to extend along atleast a majority or entirety of its circumference. Also, with referenceto FIGS. 12 and 15, the “operative orientation” of the assembly of thisembodiment of the present invention also comprises and is at leastpartially defined by the grid 504 being disposed in connected engagementwith the stabilizing ring 502 such that the outwardly bowed portion 506is disposed in movement restricting engagement with the one or moreleaflets 104, 106 of the mitral valve, as also represented in FIGS. 4-6of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-11. The combination of both the stabilizingring 502 and the grid 504 being so disposed in the “operativeorientation” serves to eliminate or significantly reduce the possibilityof the one or more leaflets 104 and 106 of the mitral valve 100 being inprolapse and the concurrent restriction of the possibility ofregurgitation of the mitral valve.

With further reference to FIG. 12 the catheter 200 used for operativepositioning of the grid 504 may differ from the catheter 200′ by notincluding the inflatable bladder 520. More specifically, the catheter200 and the operative features of placement of the grid 504 may besubstantially equivalent to the representation of grid placement asshown in FIGS. 10-11.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be madeto the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intendedthat all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An assembly structured to restrict regurgitationof a mitral valve of the heart, said assembly comprising: a ringdimensioned and configured to substantially correspond to a naturalannulus of the mitral valve, said ring configured to be disposed in anoperative orientation on an interior of the left atrium of the heart,said operative orientation comprising said ring configured to beconnected to and extending along at least a majority of a circumferenceof the natural annulus, a grid comprising a liquid permeable centralportion and a circumferential outer portion around a periphery of saidcentral portion, wherein said grid is a separate component from saidring, a positioning instrument configured to be removably disposedwithin the heart and structured to define an operative positioning of atleast said ring into said operative orientation, and said operativeorientation further comprising said circumferential outer portion ofsaid grid connected to said ring, said grid configured to be on aninterior of the left atrium, in overlying, movement restricting relationto at least one mitral valve leaflet, at least during a systole phase ofthe heart cycle.
 2. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein said ringis formed from an at least partially flexible, semirigid materialstructured to move with the natural annulus between open and closedorientations of the natural annulus during diastole and systole phasesof the heart cycle.
 3. The assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein saidring includes a continuous, closed configuration configured to beconnected to and extending along substantially an entirety of thenatural annulus, when in said operative orientation.
 4. The assembly asrecited in claim 1 wherein said central portion of said grid comprises abowed section extending outwardly from said peripheral portion.
 5. Theassembly as recited in claim 4 wherein said bowed section of saidcentral portion is configured to be disposed in aligned, overlyingrelation to a coaptation line of the mitral valve leaflets, at leastduring a systole phase of the heart cycle.
 6. The assembly as recited inclaim 5 wherein said operative orientation further comprises said bowedsection configured to be disposed in movement restricting relation to atleast one mitral valve leaflet, during a systole phase of the heartcycle.
 7. The assembly as recited in claim 6 wherein said operativeorientation further comprises said bowed section configured to beprotruding at least partially through a mitral orifice of the mitralvalve during the diastole phase of the heart cycle.
 8. The assembly asrecited in claim 1 wherein said positioning instrument comprises acatheter disposed within the left atrium in communication with themitral valve, concurrent to said operative positioning of the ring; aninflatable bladder mounted on said catheter, said inflatable bladderdisposable in an inflated orientation and a deflated orientation.
 9. Theassembly as recited in claim 8 wherein said bladder includes a distalsegment and a proximal segment connected to one another at a junction;said distal segment including a transverse dimension corresponding tothe mitral orifice when open and said proximal segment having atransverse dimension greater than said distal segment and the openmitral orifice.
 10. The assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein saidoperative positioning of said ring comprises said ring disposed insurrounding relation to said distal segment, in aligned relation withsaid junction and in abutting relation with said proximal segment. 11.The assembly as recited in claim 10 wherein said operative positioningof said ring further comprises said distal segment disposed through thenatural orifice and said ring disposed in connecting engagement with thenatural annulus.
 12. The assembly as recited in claim 11 furthercomprising said proximal segment forcibly disposed in abuttingengagement with said ring concurrent to said ring disposed in saidoperative orientation connected to the natural annulus.
 13. The assemblyas recited in claim 12 further comprising an attachment structuremounted on said ring and extending outwardly there from into an attachedengagement with the natural annulus; said attached engagement furtherdefine said operative orientation.
 14. The assembly as recited in claim1 wherein said ring comprises an elongated channel extending along aninner periphery of the ring to facilitate a connection of the grid tothe ring.